Overview
About Honey
Honey is one of the classic high-FODMAP foods because it carries far more fructose than glucose, so the excess fructose cannot all be absorbed and ferments in the gut.
That is why honey is a frequent cause of bloating, gas and diarrhea for people with fructose malabsorption or IBS, and it is rated high FODMAP by Monash. It is also moderately high in salicylates and sits on the pro-inflammatory side as an added sugar.
Sensitivities
How Honey scores
Watch for
What trips people up
- Very high in excess fructose, the main reason it triggers bloating, gas and loose stools in fructose malabsorption
- Rated high FODMAP overall, so even a teaspoon can be enough for a sensitive gut
- Moderately high in salicylates, a separate trigger if you are salicylate sensitive
- Poorly tolerated in SIBO, where the sugars feed bacterial overgrowth
Diet fit
Where it fits
Swap ideas
More alternatives
FAQ
Common questions about Honey
Is honey high FODMAP?
Yes. Honey is high FODMAP because it contains more fructose than glucose, and that excess fructose is poorly absorbed and ferments in the gut. Monash rates even small servings as high, so honey is a common trigger for bloating and diarrhea in people with IBS or fructose malabsorption.
What can I use instead of honey on a low-FODMAP diet?
Glucose (dextrose) and pure maple syrup are the usual low-FODMAP swaps because they do not carry the excess fructose that makes honey a problem. Stevia is another option when you want sweetness without the fructose load.
References
Read the background
Ratings reflect the Triggerbites ingredient database and may vary with portion size and preparation.